WATCH: Matthew Boyd reflects on his emotional Cubs debut at Wrigley Field

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - 1 day ago

Chicago Cubs left-hander Matthew Boyd met with the media after a 7-1 win over the San Diego Padres about how special it was to pitch for Chicago at Wrigley Field, his connection with catcher Carson Kelly and more.

“My grandfather would have loved this,” an emotional Kelly said after the game. “I know what it would have meant to him, I know what it means to my dad, just to put on this uniform.”

Boyd is grateful that he is now part of the Cubs organization.

“As I grew up, the Cubs were always something special because it was special to my dad, so he passed that on,” Boyd said. “So, to be a part of this is really cool and I’m really grateful.”

Boyd understands not take any of this for granted.

“Every time I take that walk on the field, I just try to take a moment and soak it in.” Boyd said. “Because you are a big-league baseball player, now I’m pitching for the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field.”

Watch the postgame interview below:

Video summary/cliff-notes:

(00:00) Matthew Boyd expresses deep gratitude for being part of the Cubs and pitching at Wrigley Field, calling it a special experience he doesn't take lightly.

(00:40) Gets emotional discussing his grandfather, a die-hard Cubs fan who passed in 2019, and how meaningful it is to wear the Cubs uniform.

(01:15) Shares that he used to call his grandfather after games, and how much the Cubs meant to both his grandfather and father—making his time with the team deeply personal.

(02:16) Reminisces about growing up a Mariners fan but still loving the Cubs due to family influence—especially from his grandfather.

(02:48) Praises catcher Carson Kelly for calling a great game and celebrates their strong teamwork during his first career start at Wrigley.

(03:18) Reflects on being grateful for the opportunity to pitch at Wrigley after overcoming career uncertainty and injuries, emphasizing the importance of soaking in the moment.

(04:24) Discusses his comeback from Tommy John surgery in his 30s, emphasizing that he never lost belief in himself and was ready for the opportunity.

(05:22) Talks about using his rehab period for self-reflection and mental preparation, focusing on being ready for when the next chance came.

(05:56) Describes the electric atmosphere at Wrigley and the intimacy and energy of the crowd, especially while watching fellow pitcher Shota Imanaga.

(06:28) Commends a teammate for reaching a longevity milestone with the Cubs, highlighting his leadership, consistency, and character.